During the development stages of Apple’s new Lion OS X, the company has been suggesting that their OS X and OS X Server will be combined in some way. Well, the team over at Hard Mac have uncovered that the new Lion Server will become a new Apple Mac Store download.
Within the Lion OS X, Hard Mac have discovered that by searching for ‘install server’ brings up the instructions below, asking users to jump over to the Mac App Store and purchase the Server app.
The new system which Apple has incorporated now suggests that every copy of Lion OS X will be able to function as a server, once the new Lion Server application is purchased.
Implications for Users and Businesses
This move by Apple to integrate server capabilities into the standard OS X installation could have significant implications for both individual users and businesses. For individual users, this means that they can easily transform their personal computers into powerful servers without needing to purchase separate hardware or software. This could be particularly useful for developers, small business owners, and tech enthusiasts who want to host websites, manage networks, or run server-based applications from their own machines.
For businesses, especially small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the ability to convert existing Mac computers into servers could result in substantial cost savings. Instead of investing in dedicated server hardware, businesses can leverage their existing Mac infrastructure to handle server tasks. This could also simplify IT management, as the same operating system would be used across both client and server machines, reducing the learning curve and maintenance overhead.
Pricing and Accessibility
No pricing for the new Lion Server has been released as yet, but with it being available in the new Mac App Store, will Apple continue to price it at $499 for unlimited licenses, or drop the price for individual installs? The pricing strategy Apple chooses will be crucial in determining how widely adopted the Lion Server will be. If Apple opts for a more affordable, per-install pricing model, it could democratize access to server capabilities, making it feasible for a broader range of users and organizations.
Moreover, the availability of Lion Server through the Mac App Store aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of streamlining software distribution and updates. By centralizing the purchase and installation process, Apple can ensure that users always have access to the latest features and security updates. This approach also simplifies the process of scaling server capabilities, as users can easily add more server instances by purchasing additional licenses through the App Store.
Another aspect to consider is the potential for third-party developers to create complementary applications and services that enhance the functionality of Lion Server. The Mac App Store could become a hub for a wide range of server-related tools, from security and monitoring solutions to performance optimization and automation utilities. This ecosystem of third-party apps could further increase the value proposition of Lion Server, making it an even more attractive option for users and businesses alike.
The integration of server capabilities into Lion OS X represents a significant shift in Apple’s approach to server software. By making Lion Server available as a downloadable app from the Mac App Store, Apple is lowering the barriers to entry and making powerful server functionality accessible to a wider audience. The ultimate success of this initiative will depend on factors such as pricing, ease of use, and the availability of complementary third-party applications. As more details emerge, it will be interesting to see how users and businesses respond to this new offering from Apple.
Source: Cult of Mac : HardMac
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